President of Russia, Vladimir Putin, has recently clarified the role of Russian peacekeepers in Nagorno-Karabakh following the events of 2020. According to a report from TASS, Putin stated that the Russian peacekeepers were only authorized to observe the ceasefire and did not possess any additional rights. This revelation sheds light on the limited involvement of Russian forces in the conflict.
The statement from Putin comes in the midst of international efforts to stabilize the situation in Nagorno-Karabakh. Charles Michel, the President of the European Council, has called for mutual recognition of territorial integrity between Armenia and Azerbaijan. In line with these diplomatic efforts, Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, is set to hold a bilateral meeting with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan in Granada, Spain. The meeting aims to address the ongoing situation in Nagorno-Karabakh and explore potential solutions.
The significance of the issue is further underscored by the ongoing summit of the European Political Community and the informal meeting of the European Council taking place in Granada. Leaders and representatives from various European nations are convening to discuss pressing matters, including the conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh. The meeting serves as a platform to foster dialogue and cooperation in addressing the crisis.
The conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh escalated on September 19 when Azerbaijani authorities launched a local operation. The operation aimed to counter what Baku described as “large-scale provocations” and to disarm and withdraw Armenian army units from the region. After a day of intense negotiations facilitated by Russian peacekeepers, a ceasefire agreement was finally reached, bringing a temporary halt to the hostilities.
The developments in Nagorno-Karabakh have sparked discussions in the European Parliament regarding potential sanctions against Azerbaijan for its actions in the region. The deliberations reflect the growing concern among European lawmakers over the destabilizing impact of the conflict and the need to hold the responsible parties accountable.
As the situation in Nagorno-Karabakh continues to evolve, it is crucial for international actors to remain engaged and committed to finding a lasting resolution. The role of Russian peacekeepers in observing the ceasefire, as highlighted by President Putin, underscores the importance of their presence in facilitating diplomatic efforts. The ongoing discussions and meetings among European leaders further demonstrate the global interest in resolving the conflict and restoring peace to the region.
